Warning signs: when to see the vet

Cats are good at hiding pain. Watch out for this.

Cats are masters at hiding

Cats often only show pain late. Changes in behaviour are therefore important clues: withdrawing, grooming less, lying differently.

Not eating

If your cat hasn't eaten for more than a day, call the vet. In cats, going without food for longer can itself make them ill.

Emergency: tomcat can't pee

If a tomcat keeps sitting in the litter box, strains and little or no urine comes out, it's an emergency. Go to the vet immediately, even at night.

Breathing and movement

If your cat breathes with her mouth open, very fast or with effort, or suddenly can't move her back legs: go to the vet immediately.

Other warning signs

Repeated vomiting, blood in faeces or urine, severe diarrhoea, suspected poisoning or a fall from a height should also be checked quickly.